Landlord Relations

What if the landlord/manager does not follow through with my repair need?

If your landlord/manager does not follow through with your repair need –OR—if you can not seem to get in contact with them, send them a letter by registered mail. This letter should include the repair needed and the given time limit for the repair to be completed (usually around 5 days). Make sure that the letter includes an explanation that if no action is taken and the repair is not complete you will be forced to take legal action.

What if I take the matter into my own hands and then take the cost out of my rent?

First of all you should not take matters into your own hands unless you have the written permission of your landlord/manager, via letter or lease, or if it a repair that poses an immediate risk that cannot wait to be fixed. If you do choose to repair on your own then you may not take the cost out of your rent, unless your landlord/manager gives you written notification.

What if I am forced to take legal action?

If your landlord/manager does not respond and you are forced to take legal action, first contact Student Legal Services to receive free legal advice. They will probably give you two options: filing for a possible rent reduction or continuing to pay your rent via an escrow account. In all cases you will want to pay your rent so that the landlord/manager does not have any reason to terminate your lease.

What if I do not pay my rent on time?

You should always pay your rent on time, and if you feel you should not pay your rent because of a tenant/landlord dispute then put it into an escrow account. However, if you do not pay your rent on time and as a result your landlord is late making his own payments, you can be sued for the interest charges on his late payments. If you are repeatedly late on your rent, or for more than the number of weeks specified in your lease, your landlord may evict you from the rental property.

What if my landlord wants to raise my rent?

If your landlord wants to raise the rent and you are on a 12-month lease then you should be notified at least 3 to 6 months before the end of the lease. The increase will occur only once the lease term is up and if renewed. If you believe the raise in rent is unreasonable then you should speak with your landlord/manager, as well as with Student Legal Services for advice.

What if my landlord wants access to my apartment?

Your landlord should give you 24-hour verbal or written notice before visiting your apartment. If he needs to make repairs he may come between normal business hours; however, if it is an emergency or urgent repair then no notice may be given.